French Interior Minister Threatens Resignation Over Algerian Migrant Policy
Tensions are flaring between France and Algeria over the repatriation of Algerian migrants, with French Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin threatening to resign if Paris softens its stance. Darmanin’s strong words come amidst a broader diplomatic chill between the two nations, exacerbated by France’s recognition of Moroccan sovereignty over Western Sahara in 2020, a move that further strained the already complex Franco-Algerian relationship.
In an interview with Le Parisien, Darmanin expressed his unwavering commitment to ensuring the safety and security of French citizens. He insisted on Algeria’s cooperation in accepting the return of its citizens residing illegally in France, including individuals involved in criminal activities. He specifically referenced a February 22nd attack in Mulhouse, Eastern France, where an assailant of Algerian origin committed a deadly act. Algeria’s refusal to repatriate such individuals has become a sticking point, fueling Darmanin’s hardline stance. He declared he would continue in his role as long as he felt effective and had the necessary resources, but would resign if pressured to compromise on this critical issue. “I’m not here for a position, but to accomplish a mission: protecting the French people,” he stated.
This firm position echoes Darmanin’s increasingly assertive rhetoric towards Algeria, particularly following the imprisonment of French-Algerian writer Boualem Sansal, a vocal critic of the Algerian government. The escalating tensions underscore the delicate balance France must strike between maintaining national security and navigating its historically intertwined relationship with Algeria.
The French government recently compiled a list of 60 Algerian nationals slated for deportation. Darmanin has advocated for a “gradual response” if Algeria continues to resist accepting these individuals, hinting at a potential reassessment of the 1968 Franco-Algerian migration agreement. This agreement grants Algerians special privileges regarding travel, residency, and employment in France. Darmanin’s call for a review of this decades-old accord signals a potential shift in France’s approach to managing migration flows with Algeria. He emphasized his commitment to a firm approach, expecting full implementation of this “gradual response.”
While Darmanin takes a hard line, French President Emmanuel Macron has adopted a more conciliatory tone, favoring renegotiation rather than outright cancellation of the 1968 agreement. This difference in approach highlights the complexities within the French government’s handling of this sensitive diplomatic issue.
Meanwhile, Algerian President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has denounced the “harmful climate” between the two countries, emphasizing the need for renewed dialogue, provided President Macron clearly expresses a willingness to engage. This call for open communication suggests a potential pathway towards de-escalation, though significant hurdles remain given the current impasse over migrant repatriation. The future of Franco-Algerian relations hangs in the balance, with both nations grappling with the complexities of migration, security, and historical ties. The outcome of this diplomatic standoff will undoubtedly have significant implications for both countries and the broader region.
